Young Male Kickboxing in MMA Gym

With the popularity of Mixed Martial Arts on the rise, more and more people are looking to buy MMA mats for their homes or gym. If you own or operate an MMA gym, then you know that having the right mats is essential for the safety of your athletes and the success of your business.  With so many different types and brands of mats on the market, it can be tough to know which ones are right for you.

 

Our guide will break down everything you need to consider before making a purchase so that you can find the perfect mats for your gym. Read on for the six things you should keep in mind when shopping for MMA mats.

What are MMA Mats?

MMA mats are a type of flooring that is designed to provide cushioning and traction for mixed martial arts training and competitions. MMA mats are usually made from a variety of materials, including foam, rubber, and vinyl. They often have a textured surface to help prevent slips and falls, and they may be interlocking for simple installation.

 

 

MMA mats can be used for a variety of martial arts disciplines, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, and wrestling. They can also be used for other activities that require a cushioned surface, such as gymnastics and cheerleading. MMA mats are typically sold in a variety of sizes to accommodate different training areas.

Let's take a look at the six things you should consider before buying MMA mats.

1. Size and Dimensions

One of the most important things to consider when buying MMA mats is size. You need to make sure the mats you purchase are big enough to cover the area you want to use them in. If you're using them for a home gym, you'll need to measure your space's dimensions and ensure the mats will fit. If you're using them for a professional gym, you'll need to ensure they meet regulation size requirements.

High-quality MMA matting come in a variety of sizes, from small squares that are perfect for home use to large rolls that can cover an entire gym. No matter what your needs are, you can find an MMA matting option that will work for you.

2. Thickness

Another important consideration is thickness. You want to ensure the mats are thick enough to provide adequate cushioning and support but not so thick that they become too firm.  20mm and 40mm are the most popular thickness options for MMA purposes.

3. Durability 

MMA mats must be durable enough to withstand repeated impact from strikes, throws, and takedowns. Look for mats that are made from high-quality materials like Eva foam with a cross-linked closed-cell structure. These types of mats will stand up to the wear and tear of daily training sessions.

Ju-jitsu, kickboxing, and taekwondo are all incredibly demanding sports, so you need to ensure the mats you purchase can handle the rigours of MMA training. Be sure to read product descriptions carefully and contact the manufacturer if you have any questions about a mat's durability.

At Sprung Gym Flooring, we only sell the highest quality MMA mats on the market. Tatami Eva foam mats are professionally recommended as the best material type for MMA due to its excellent protective qualities, performance and comfort.

4. Safety 

Safety is always the top priority when it comes to MMA training. Look for mats that have a cushioned surface to help absorb impact and protect athletes from injury. A good mat will also have a textured or ribbed surface to help prevent slips and falls.

When shopping for MMA mats, safety should be your number one concern. Be sure to choose a mat that meets your sport's safety standards.

5. Ease of installation 

Mats that are easy to install will save you time and money in the long run. Many brands offer interlocking tiles that can be put together like a puzzle, making installation a breeze. Some even come with removable edge strips for more options on how you want to fit them.

The best mats will have a connecting system that is secure and durable enough to withstand daily use. 

6. Colour

MMA mats are available in a wide range of colours, so you can choose an option that complements your gym's aesthetic. If you're using the mats for professional training space, you may want to opt for a neutral colour like black or grey. If you're using them for a home gym, you can choose any colour you like.  You can also use the colours of your club logo or choose dual colour tiles which are reversible giving you 2 colour options.

 

The Benefits of Using MMA Mats

MMA mats can provide a number of benefits for those who train in mixed martial arts. They can help to protect against injuries and friction burn, increase traction, and provide a more comfortable surface to train on. Here are some of the ways that MMA mats can benefit your training:

 

1. Prevent Injuries

Injuries are one of the most common concerns when training in any sport. Mixed martial arts is no different. While the risk of injury can never be completely eliminated, mats can help reduce the severity of injuries that do occur.

2. Increases Traction

Training on mats can help increase traction, which can be beneficial for a number of reasons. First, it can help prevent slips and falls, which can obviously lead to injuries. Second, it can provide a better grip for takedowns and submissions. This can lead to improved technique and more successful training sessions.  Our Eva tiles have the traditional Tatami Basketweave grid texture to the surface for superior traction.

3. Provides Comfort

Training on a hard surface can be tough on the body. MMA mats can provide a more comfortable surface to train on, which can help reduce soreness, friction burn and improve recovery time. This is especially important for those who train multiple times per week.

4. Improves Technique

One of the benefits of training on mats is that it can help improve your technique. This is due to the fact that you can use a wider variety of techniques when you have a solid foundation to work from. This can lead to better results in competitions.

5. Enhances Training Sessions

MMA mats can also enhance training sessions by providing a more realistic environment. This is because you can use the mat to simulate different surfaces that you may encounter in a real fight. This can help you be better prepared for competition.

6. Improves Balance


Another benefit of training on mats is that it can help improve your balance. This is due to the fact that you have to adjust your position when working from an unstable surface constantly. This can lead to better balance and coordination in all areas of your life.

 


These benefits make it clear that MMA mats can be valuable to any training regimen. If you are looking to improve your mixed martial arts game, consider investing in a quality mat to bet the most out of your training.


Where to Buy MMA Mats


If you're looking for high quality MMA mats, Sprung Gym Flooring offer two specialist MMA options that are suitable for both home and commercial use. as well as a wide collection of Rubber flooring for a whole range of uses from fitness to outdoor surface solutions.


Final Thoughts


If you're a beginner, mixed martial arts is a great way to get in shape and learn self-defense.  Whether you are just starting out or a training professional, a quality MMA Mat solution will go a long way.


You may also be interested in reading:

Rubber Flooring V Foam Flooring: What is the Best Choice for Me?

What is the Best Floor Options for a Dojo?

January 26, 2023 — Michael Geraghty